Description
Water Mint (Mentha aquatica) is a hardy, moisture-loving perennial herb, native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, and well-suited to Australian gardens with access to damp soils or water features. It thrives in full sun to part shade and is particularly vigorous in wet areas such as pond edges, stream banks, or swales, where it helps stabilise soil and reduce erosion.
As a member of the mint family, Water Mint is highly aromatic, producing soft, rounded leaves with a fresh, cooling fragrance. It bears attractive lilac or mauve flower clusters in summer, which are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity. The leaves are edible and can be used fresh in teas, desserts, and savoury dishes, though their flavour is often stronger and earthier than common spearmint or peppermint.
Medicinally, Water Mint has a long history of traditional use for soothing digestive issues, freshening breath, and relieving mild respiratory discomfort. Some scientific studies suggest mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties common to mints, but traditional uses are mostly anecdotal and should be approached with awareness.
In permaculture design, Water Mint serves as an edible, fragrant groundcover, a soil-stabiliser along water bodies, and a pollinator attractor. Due to its vigorous spreading habit via underground rhizomes, it is best managed in contained spaces or designated wet areas where its growth is welcome.
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